Leamond lives in the West Village in a rent-controlled apartment that he moved into 55 years ago. As the rents around him increased, so did pressure to leave.
And while his income was fixed, the rent was not. Already past the age of retirement, he says “I would be 80 and homeless” if he couldn’t stay.
“I would be 80 and homeless”
We personally accompanied Leamond to the agency that regulates housing. With our assistance, he obtained a rent freeze and learned about his rights.
Armed with information and advocates, he no longer felt pressured or intimidated and was able to stay in his home.
Throughout this process, we befriended Leamond. We still see him regularly when we conduct our mobile legal aid desk at All Angels Our Place Café, where we first met him.
We're happy to report that he is doing well. He speaks fondly of the “absolutely wonderful” attorneys who helped him.